What is a bill of sale and when do I need one?
A bill of sale is a written document that records the transfer of ownership of personal property from a seller to a buyer. You typically need one when selling a vehicle, boat, firearm, livestock, or major personal property item.
Do I need a lawyer to write a bill of sale?
No. A bill of sale is one of the simplest legal documents you can write yourself. Most states have free bill of sale templates available on their DMV or Secretary of State website.
What information must a bill of sale include to be legally valid?
A valid bill of sale must include: the full names and addresses of buyer and seller, a description of the item (including make, model, year, VIN for vehicles), the sale price, the date of sale, and the signatures of both parties.
Does a bill of sale need to be notarized?
Notarization is required for vehicle bills of sale in some states (e.g., Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, West Virginia). Check your state DMV website for the specific requirement in your state.
Where do I get an official bill of sale form for a vehicle?
Your state DMV provides free official vehicle bill of sale forms — for example, California DMV REG 135, Texas DMV VTR-203, Florida HSMV 82050. Download the form directly from your state DMV website at no cost.
Can I write my own bill of sale for a car?
Yes. You can write your own or use a state DMV template. Include the VIN, odometer reading, year, make, model, sale price, and both party signatures. Use your state's form if one is available — it ensures you capture all required information.
How do I transfer a vehicle title after completing a bill of sale?
Both parties sign the back of the existing title. The buyer then takes the signed title and bill of sale to the DMV to apply for a new title in their name. The DMV will charge a title transfer fee (typically $15–$100 depending on the state).
What is an "as-is" bill of sale?
An as-is bill of sale states the buyer accepts the property in its current condition with no warranties from the seller. Include the phrase "sold as-is with no warranties expressed or implied" to limit your liability as the seller.
Do I need a bill of sale for a boat?
Yes. Most states require a bill of sale to register or title a boat. Your state's wildlife or natural resources agency (e.g., California DMV, Florida HSMV) has a free boat bill of sale template you can download and complete yourself.
Can a bill of sale be used as proof of ownership?
A bill of sale is evidence of a transaction but is not a title document for vehicles. For real proof of legal ownership of a vehicle you need a properly transferred title. For personal property like electronics or furniture, a bill of sale is typically sufficient.
How many copies of a bill of sale should I keep?
Both the buyer and seller should each receive a signed original copy. Keep your copy in a safe place — it may be needed for tax purposes, insurance claims, or if ownership is ever disputed.
Do I need a bill of sale for a firearm?
While not federally required for private sales in all states, a firearm bill of sale is strongly recommended and required in some states. It should include the firearm's make, model, caliber, and serial number to protect both parties legally.
How does uplaw.ai help with a bill of sale?
Tell us your situation in the chat and we walk you through every form and deadline at no cost.
Free to start
Ready to create your bill of sale? Tell uplaw.ai what you're selling.
No account required. uplaw.ai identifies the right DMV or state forms for your property type, fills out every field, and tells you if notarization is required in your state.